White Spots After Braces – Why?

Introduction

White spots that remain on the teeth after removing braces are a result of food and drink debris high in sugar and acid left on the teeth, especially at night. Many foods, like crackers that are high in carbohydrates are really ‘sugars’ to your teeth. When you add sugar to the bacteria already in your mouth (all of us have bacteria in our mouths, good and bad bacteria) it forms an acid. This acid, if not balanced, begins the process of breaking down the enamel on your teeth and can leave those white spots that nobody likes. Those areas, also known as enamel decalcification are precarious (pre-decay) areas. There is no way in which to completely remove the decalcification, it remains there, and can eventually turn into a cavity. This is why it’s critical to care for your teeth while you have braces.

Oral Hygiene is extremely important for overall health, but especially important during Orthodontic Treatment to avoid having these white areas on your teeth after your treatment is complete. It is very disappointing for a patient to look forward to having their braces taken off, only to see that enamel decalcification is present on their teeth and cannot be removed.

Daily brushing and flossing are key to good oral hygiene. Using an orthodontic flosser such as The Harp Orthodontic Flosser will help alleviate the issues of swollen gums (gingival hyperplasia) and white spots, (enamel decalcification.)

Tips to Remember:

• Reduce the amount of acidic food and starchy foods.
• Use an electric toothbrush such as a Sonicare for better oral hygiene.
• Preventive use of Fluoride as prescribed by your dentist.
• Never NOT Floss!
• Always Floss!
• Floss your Braces twice a day, minimum.
• No, really. Floss – Fast & Easy. There’s a tool for that. ;

Have a Question for Dr. Larry Caldwell, Inventor of The Harp Flosser and Fast & Easy Flossing? Simply Reply to this email or call us!  800-495-2783 or info@harpflosser.com